FTC, Illinois, and Minnesota Sue Deere & Company Over Repair Monopoly, Citing Lina Khan's Concerns

Jan 15, 2025, 05:01 PM

The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC), along with the attorneys general of Illinois and Minnesota, has filed a lawsuit against Deere & Company, alleging that the company has engaged in unfair practices that have driven up repair costs for farmers. According to FTC Chair Lina Khan, Deere has monopolized the repair market for its agricultural equipment, including tractors and combines, by restricting access to its software repair tool, Service ADVISOR, making it available only to its authorized dealers. This has forced farmers to rely on Deere's network of dealers for repairs, resulting in higher costs and delays that can impact critical farming operations. The FTC's complaint states that Deere has maintained a 100% market share in the repair market, allowing it to hike prices. The FTC's action aims to ensure that farmers can repair their own equipment or use independent repair shops, thereby lowering costs and promoting competition.